Albergue Laganares

San Nicolás del Real Camino is a tiny village on the Camino Francés in the province of Palencia, sitting in the flat cereal plains of the Castilian meseta. It sees a steady flow of pilgrims but remains quiet and unhurried, with little more than a handful of buildings and the rhythm of walkers passing through.

Albergue Laganares has been welcoming pilgrims since 2006 and sits right on the route through the village, making it easy to spot and hard to miss. Under new management since 2024, it is run by Daniela and operates exclusively for pilgrims. The hostel has four dormitory rooms with bunk beds sleeping four to six people each, for a total of twenty beds, and costs 16 euros a night for a dorm place.

What makes it a reasonable stop beyond just the bed is the bar-restaurant on site, which offers vegan and vegetarian options alongside a communal dinner for 15 euros. Breakfast is also available. Laundry facilities, individual lockers, disposable sheets and towels, and a garden round out the practical offerings. Pets are welcome with prior reservation, which is worth noting for the relatively small number of pilgrims walking with animals. The hostel is open from April through October, with check-in between noon and 8 pm.